pull (one) up on (something)

pull (one) up on (something)

To hold one responsible or accountable for something they did or said. The boss pulled Larry up for his erratic behavior and sloppy attire.The reporter repeatedly pulled the senator up for his comments about mental health issues.

pull up

1. To lift someone or something up; to place or position someone or something upward or upright. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "pull" and "up." Dad pulled him up out of the water.He pulled up the mirror so that it rested against the wall.

2. To bring something close to someone or something else. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "pull" and "up." Why don't you pull up a chair and we can discuss the issue?Pull your seat up here next to me.

3. To maneuver something (typically a vehicle) alongside or in front of something or someone and bring it to a halt. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "pull" and "up." He pulled his car up alongside mine and handed me the package.The police pulled up to the building and called for backup.

4. To procure and open a source of information about someone or something. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "pull" and "up." I pulled her up on social media and learned that she was an investment banker.I'm pulling up an article on 18th-century wig making for a paper I'm writing.

5. To reach the position or place of someone or something positioned ahead of oneself. The champion runner got off to a rough start but quickly pulled up and passed by the competition.

6. To force the nose of an airplane upward, so as to reduce its descent or increase its ascent. Pilot, you need to pull up or you're going to hit the runway!He pulled up to avoid hitting the top of the skyscraper.

7. To pull a plant out of the soil. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "pull" and "up." If you don't pull weeds up by the root, they'll always grow back.My back aches from pulling up carrots all morning.

8. To stop moving or take a break. This town looks nice enough—let's pull up here for the night and get back on the road in the morning.

pull someone or something up

to drag or haul someone or something upward or to an upright position. Bob had slipped down into the creek, so I reached down and pulled him up.I pulled up Bob and nearly fell in myself.Nick pulled the cushion up and propped it against the back of the sofa.

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